Alternative Names

How the Test is Performed

The health care provider will inject a radioactive material called a radioisotope into one of your veins. After the liver has soaked up the material, you will be asked to lie on a table under the scanner.

The scanner can tell where the radioactive material has gathered in the body. Images are displayed on a computer. You may be asked to remain still, or to change positions during the scan.

How to Prepare for the Test

You must sign a consent form. You will be asked to remove jewelry, dentures, and other metals that can affect the scanner's functions.

You may need to wear a hospital gown.

How the Test will Feel

You will feel a sharp prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You should not feel anything during the actual scan. If you have problems lying still or are very anxious, you may be given a mild medicine (sedative) to help you relax.

Why the Test is Performed

The test can provide information about liver and spleen function. It is also used to help confirm other test results.

The most common use for a liver scan is to diagnose a condition called benign focal nodular hyperplasia, or FNH, which causes a non-cancerous mass in the liver.

Normal Results

The liver and spleen should look normal in size, shape, and location. The radioisotope is absorbed evenly.